Le Grau-du-Roidepartment: gard (30)region: languedoc-roussillon

Built in 1570 on both sides
of a breach (‘grau’) in the coastal defences, between the mouth of the Rhone
and the Vidourle, this resort has 18km/11.25 miles of beaches.

Formerly, it was a humble port used by fishermen living in simple huts. But the
railway has put it within striking distances of many cities. The resort is just
a short distance from Aigues-Mortes, which has a full range of services and
facilities.

The modern-day resort town benefits from its fine sandy beaches, with sand dunes on the Pointe de Éspiguette forming an important
wildlife habitat. The étangs are noted for their birds, which include
flamingoes.

Highlights: You're here for the
beach, but make the most of the quayside seafood restaurants.

Children will love the Seaquarium, a giant aquarium housing all sorts of
Mediterranean and tropical fish, as well as a huge pool for seals and
sea-lions. Open every day of the year except 25 December. (Tel: 04 66 51 57
57).